FERNANDES REFLECTS ON AMORIM RELATIONSHIP

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has shared his perspective on his relationship with manager Ruben Amorim, admitting that while they have a solid professional connection, they aren't particularly close on a personal level.

Fernandes, who has been in excellent form lately, netting twice and adding one assist in his last three Premier League matches, remains one of the most influential figures at Old Trafford. His brilliant 25-yard free-kick against Arsenal in a 1-1 draw on Sunday underscored his importance to the team.

Since Amorim took over as the permanent United boss in November, the Portuguese midfielder has been a consistent presence, starting 25 of the 26 matches under the new manager. His only absence came when he was suspended for one match following an incident in the game against Newcastle.

Despite Fernandes' crucial role under Amorim’s management, the two do not have the close personal bond some might expect. When asked about his relationship with the 40-year-old manager, Fernandes gave an honest insight. "I wouldn't say we are quite close, we don't speak that much to be honest," Fernandes told CBS Sports. "He's a manager that is quiet, he likes to have a talk here and there but he doesn't with everyone. Being the captain, most of the things he wants to pass to the team comes through me. But other times it doesn't come from him, it comes from his staff or his team manager or whatever. Obviously, we have a good relationship but I wouldn't say it's different from any other player."

Fernandes revealed that while they share a professional rapport, their connection has not gone beyond their roles at the club. He acknowledged that Amorim is someone he knew about before taking over at United, having observed his work at Sporting CP. "I knew the things he was doing at Sporting because I was watching Sporting play in Portugal but wasn't someone I knew personally. I met him once when I went to a Sporting game and that was the only time I met him: it was a 'hello and a goodbye,'" Fernandes explained.

The 30-year-old continued, noting that despite their limited personal interaction, he recognized the impact Amorim had at Sporting and admired his work. "I knew the way Sporting was playing and knew the fans were excited, the players were happy with him at the club," Fernandes said. "We all saw in the last game with him how much together the staff and the players had in that time. Me and my teammates and the staff, including the manager, want to recreate that and winning trophies too."

Despite this more reserved relationship, Amorim has repeatedly praised Fernandes for his performances and leadership qualities. After United’s draw against Arsenal, Amorim highlighted Fernandes' importance, both as a player and as a leader on the pitch. "I think [Fernandes] steps up all the time. Sometimes he can show frustration in moments, and that can hurt him more than anybody. But he wants to win, he is always available and always ready to play in different positions," Amorim said in his post-match press conference.

The United boss continued, emphasizing Fernandes’ contribution to the team: "When the team needs a goal or an assist, he is always there and always sets a good example. Any coach, when you want to bring players, expects the best. But sometimes you have to adapt. What I can say is that we need more Brunos, not just the character, but his availability and ability with the ball."

While the pair may not have a personal bond outside of football, it’s clear that their professional relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding, with Fernandes playing a vital role in Amorim's Manchester United side. As the team aims to secure silverware and continue progressing under the new regime, Fernandes’ leadership and performances will remain crucial in achieving that success.